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The proper training of those who apply crop protection products is critical to the safe and efficient application of pesticides used to control pests in our environment. Wolf Consulting & Research LLC will utilize expertise to educate pesticide applicators* on the latest application technology and utilize sound research methods through applied research on new and improved application technologies to protect floricultural, nursery, landscape, turf, horticultural, and field crops against damage from diseases, insects, and weeds, while safeguarding environmental quality, food and worker safety.

Application technology is rapidly changing how crop protection products can be applied to maximize pest control efficacy while minimizing spray drift. Application companies can no longer risk not having their applicators properly trained with the latest knowledge and techniques for applying crop protection products. Making an application resulting in poor pest control or an application resulting in off-target damage will have an impact on company profits as well as the environment.

Making decisions regarding the proper application of crop protection products in the future will be challenging. We have come through a time when using glyphosate was the norm and consequently very little attention was given to the practices used to make applications. All we had to do was build pressure and drive…all the weeds would die, or so we thought. Now, after years of questionable applications practices and numerous other reasons we are battling weeds that won’t die. Technologically improved formulations of 2,4-D, dicamba, and other such products will become part of a much different application process, as will the requirements of using a variety of tank mixes to combat this war against resistant weeds. Not only will there be Roundup Ready seed technology, but also, 2,4-D, dicamba, and others. As we are beginning to learn, the applications of the future will be very much dictated by what is included on the label with specific information on droplet size, nozzle type requirements, boom height restrictions, buffer zone requirements, and others. Many of these concepts are new to the application industry and because of the concern for proper stewardship expressed by the EPA, the participating seed and chemical companies will be very intent on ensuring that applicators follow these detailed requirements. If not, then we may lose the technology. That would be unfortunate because we need all the help we can get.

A recent visual inspection of venturi nozzles used at low pressure in combination with a DRA reveals that several nozzles on the dicamba 'approved list' may not provide a suitable pattern that could effect coverage, which may also result in poor weed control. Review the information reported at this link.

The EPA has approved the 'over the crop' use of Xtendimax w/VGT, Engenia, and Enlist Duo w/Colex-D as a technology to help control resistant weeds in herbicide tolerant cropping systems. As expected, in states where these products will be used, special rules are being developed regarding how these applications will be made.

FieldWatch is a non-profit company that offers mapping and communication tools which are just one element of a successful formula for successful co-existence of specialty producers, large scale commodity farmers, commercial and private applicators and beekeepers. Communication is the start, but cooperation and collaboration of all parties is essential. Sometimes it means compromise or adjustments that foster an environment that everyone can do what they need to do with respect to the needs of others.